Inspiring Workplaces: Finding Creative Ways to Say "YES!"

Published: Wed, 07/17/24

Updated: Wed, 07/17/24

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Inspiring Workplaces
The Way Work Ought to Be!

#1,030 - July 17, 2024

Finding Creative Ways to Say "YES!"

In my LinkedIn Learning course on Exceeding Customer Expectations Every Time, I speak about the importance of always trying to get to a "yes," whether it's with your internal or external customers.

When I asked employees at Zappos (the online shoe company with a rocking fun culture) if they had any stress in their jobs, the response I received from all of them was enlightening: "Yes, but unlike in my past jobs it's positive stress. Rather than being stressed out because I have to say "no" to a customer or explain some onerous policy to them, the only stress I have here is how can I make this customer's day by wowing them even when it's an unusual request or complaint."

This kind of positive stress is linked to the creative pursuit of figuring out how you can say "YES!" to anything thrown your way at work, even if it's merely coming with alternative suggestions.

Not only is the creative pursuit of a yes a welcome customer service policy, it's also a great way to flex your creative muscles while having some fun along the way.

AFA JCDecaux, the Danish outdoor advertising I've written glowingly about, encourages all their sales agents to find a creative 'yes' to any customer's request for a discount. So rather than saying 'no' outright, their agents have been known to challenge the customer to a game of Foosball in their lunchroom with the following creative wager: For every point the agent scores on the customer, they'll knock 1% off the price; 2% off for every point the customer nabs. Outrageous? Perhaps. But you can't argue with the incredible results they have achieved as a company.

And few people will argue with you if you creatively and passionately chase after an enthusiastic "YES!"

Mike's Fun at Work Tip

Today, July 17, is the day you've all been waiting for! Yes, it's International Balloon Dog Day! Now you don't have to do this today, but to add a little levity to a future meeting or social event, why not kick things off by doling out some balloons and encouraging everyone to try and make what is quite likely their very first balloon dog.

Quote of the Week

“Savoring is swishing an experience around in your mind.”

Fred Bryant (and yes, he's an expert on savoring, which sounds like a very cool thing to be an expert on)

Funny Business

As seen on a restaurant sign:

Prices subject to change according to the customer's attitude!

Transforming Your Workplace Culture! Michael Kerr was a guest on the Marc Haine Live business podcast speaking about all things leadership and workplace culture. It was a rollicking conversation that I we know you'll find great value in!

Small Moments, BIG Outcomes is now available on Amazon! This book is packed with ideas and real-world examples that will help you lead with greater confidence and create the kind of workplace where EVERYONE wants to work! Small Moments, Big Outcomes.

"You have collected some of the absolutely best practices and took the time to creatively put them all in one book." Mike Easton, President, CEO, Argus Industries

How to Be An Inspiring Culture Leader: What Culture Leaders Do to Create Inspiring Cultures That Drive Extraordinary Results This online membership site/course includes 12 video-based modules, 5 eBooks, and all the resources you need to help you build an inspiring workplace culture.

Follow Michael Kerr - The Workplace Energizer!

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